U.S. patent application number 11/685669 was filed with the patent office on 2007-09-20 for multifunction peripheral and method of selecting processing functions thereof.
This patent application is currently assigned to SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION. Invention is credited to Toru FUNAMIZU.
Application Number | 20070216943 11/685669 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38147635 |
Filed Date | 2007-09-20 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070216943 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
FUNAMIZU; Toru |
September 20, 2007 |
Multifunction Peripheral and Method of Selecting Processing
Functions Thereof
Abstract
The present invention provides a multifunction peripheral unit,
including a list transmission section that creates a list of
devices connected to a network and transmits the list to a user
terminal; a device information reception section that receives
information on a device selected by the user from a user terminal
constituting the transmission destination of the list; a processing
function list transmission section that creates a list of the
processing functions that can be executed by the device on the
basis of the received device information and transmits the list of
the processing functions to the user terminal; a processing
function information reception section that receives information on
a processing function selected by the user from a user terminal
constituting the transmission destination of the processing
function list; and an execution control section that controls the
device to execute the processing function on the basis of the
received device information and processing function
information.
Inventors: |
FUNAMIZU; Toru; (Nagano,
JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
HOGAN & HARTSON L.L.P.
1999 AVENUE OF THE STARS, SUITE 1400
LOS ANGELES
CA
90067
US
|
Assignee: |
SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION
Tokyo
JP
|
Family ID: |
38147635 |
Appl. No.: |
11/685669 |
Filed: |
March 13, 2007 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
358/1.15 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04L 29/08 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
358/1.15 |
International
Class: |
G06F 3/12 20060101
G06F003/12 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Mar 14, 2006 |
JP |
2006-068804 |
Mar 22, 2006 |
JP |
2006-078610 |
Claims
1. A multifunction peripheral unit, comprising: a list transmission
section that creates a list of devices connected to a network and
transmits the list to a user terminal; a device information
reception section that receives information on a device selected by
a user from a user terminal constituting a transmission destination
for the list; a processing function list transmission section that
creates a list of processing functions that can be executed by the
device on the basis of the received device information and
transmits the list of the processing functions to the user
terminal; a processing function information reception section that
receives information on a processing function selected by the user
from a user terminal constituting the transmission destination for
the processing function list; and an execution control section that
controls the device to execute the processing function on the basis
of the received device information and processing function
information.
2. The multifunction peripheral unit according to claim 1, further
comprising a device-specific information storage section that
stores device-specific information for identifying devices
connected to the network, wherein the list transmission section
references information stored in the device-specific information
storage section to create the list.
3. The multifunction peripheral unit according to claim 2, further
comprising a UI information storage section that stores information
related to the processing functions that can be executed by the
respective devices connected to the network, wherein the processing
function list transmission section references the information
stored in the UI information storage section to create the list of
the processing functions.
4. The multifunction peripheral unit according to claim 3, further
comprising: a model information storage section that associates and
stores device-specific information on devices that can be connected
to the network and information relating to drivers for controlling
the devices; and a section that, when a device is newly connected
to the network, searches the model information storage section
based on the device-specific information on the newly connected
device and installs a driver for the newly connected device.
5. A multifunction system in which a multifunction peripheral unit,
a user terminal, and a plurality of devices are connected to a
network, wherein the multifunction peripheral unit comprises: a
list transmission section that creates a list of devices connected
to the network and transmits the list to the user terminal; a
device information reception section that receives information on a
device selected by a user from a user terminal constituting a
transmission destination for the list; a processing function list
transmission section that, based on the received device
information, creates a list of processing functions that can be
executed by the device and transmits the list of the processing
functions to the user terminal; a processing function information
reception section that receives information on a processing
function selected by the user from a user terminal constituting the
transmission destination for the processing function list; and an
execution control section that controls the device to execute the
processing function on the basis of the received device information
and processing function information, and wherein the user terminal
comprises: a list presentation section that receives the list from
the multifunction peripheral unit and presents the list to the
user; a device information transmission section that transmits
information on a device selected from the list to the multifunction
peripheral unit; a processing function list presentation section
that receives the processing function list from the multifunction
peripheral unit and presents the processing function list to the
user; and a processing function information transmission section
that transmits information on the processing function selected from
the processing function list to the multifunction peripheral
unit.
6. A processing function selection method of allowing a user to
select a processing function of a multifunction peripheral unit
having a control section that controls the multifunction peripheral
unit, the method comprising: a step in which the control section
creates a list of devices connected to a network and transmits the
list to a user terminal; a step in which the control section
receives information on a device selected by the user from a user
terminal constituting a transmission destination for the list; a
step in which the control section creates a list of processing
functions that can be executed by the device based on the received
device information and transmits the list of the processing
functions to the user terminal; a step in which the control section
receives information on a processing function selected by the user
from a user terminal constituting a transmission destination for
the processing function list; and a step in which the control
section controls the device to execute the processing function on
the basis of the received device information and processing
function information.
7. A multifunction peripheral unit, comprising: a storage section
for storing at least device-specific information which allows
devices connected to a network to be identified, and which is
automatically acquired from the devices; a data synchronization
section for sharing device-specific information by synchronizing
device-specific information to be stored in the storage section and
another storage section, which another multifunction peripheral
unit connected to the network comprises, between the storage
section and the other storage section; and an activation section
for activating the data synchronization section with pre-specified
timing.
8. The multifunction peripheral unit according to claim 7, further
comprising an installation section that references device-specific
information stored in the storage section and installs a driver for
controlling a device specified by the device-specific information,
wherein the data synchronization section synchronizes the
driver-related information, in addition to the device-specific
information, between the multifunction peripheral unit and the
other multifunction peripheral unit.
9. The multifunction peripheral unit according to claim 8, wherein
the activation section activates the data synchronization section
with the timing at which a power supply of the multifunction
peripheral unit itself is turned ON.
10. The multifunction peripheral unit according to claim 8, wherein
the activation section activates the data synchronization section
with the timing at which the multifunction peripheral unit itself
recovers from failure.
11. The multifunction peripheral unit according to claim 8, wherein
the activation section activates the data synchronization section
with the timing at which a failure in a device connected to the
network is detected.
12. A multifunction system in which a plurality of multifunction
peripheral units are connected to a network, wherein each of the
multifunction peripheral units comprises: a storage section for
storing at least device-specific information which allows devices
connected to the network to be identified, and which is
automatically acquired from the devices; a data synchronization
section for sharing device-specific information by synchronizing
device-specific information to be stored in the storage section and
another storage section, which another multifunction peripheral
unit connected to the network comprises, between the storage
section and the other storage section; and an activation section
for activating the data synchronization section with pre-specified
timing.
13. A data synchronization method for a multifunction peripheral
having a control section that controls processing of the
multifunction peripheral unit and a storage section that stores at
least device-specific information that allows devices to be
identified, the method comprising: a step in which the control
section acquires device-specific information from devices connected
to the network and stores the acquired device-specific information
in the storage section; and a step in which the control section
shares device-specific information by synchronizing device-specific
information to be stored in the storage section and another storage
section, which another multifunction peripheral unit connected to
the network comprises, between the storage section and the other
storage section with pre-specified timing.
14. A multifunction peripheral, comprising: a model information
storage section that associates and stores information related to
devices including peripheral devices and device drivers for
controlling the devices; a communication section for gathering
device-specific information for identifying the devices between the
devices connected to the network; and a checking section that
places a device driver that corresponds with a device specified by
the device-specific information gathered from the model information
storage section in a reading operational state on the basis of the
device-specific information gathered by the communication
section.
15. The multifunction peripheral according to claim 14, wherein, in
background processing, information relating to the devices
including peripheral devices and device drivers for controlling the
devices are associated and stored in the model information storage
section.
16. The multifunction peripheral according to claim 14, further
comprising an output section for outputting data acquired by
devices controlled by the device driver placed in an operational
state by the checking section.
17. The multifunction peripheral according to claim 14, wherein the
output section comprises an image-forming section for forming an
image on the basis of the data.
18. The multifunction peripheral according to claim 15, wherein the
devices include an image-forming device including a scanner.
19. A method of checking device-specific information for
identifying devices of a multifunction peripheral having a control
section that controls operation of the multifunction peripheral and
a model information storage section that associates and stores
information relating to devices including peripheral devices and
device drivers for controlling the devices, the method comprising
the steps of: gathering device-specific information on the devices
between the devices connected to the network; and placing a device
driver that corresponds to a device specified by the
device-specific information gathered from the model information
storage section in a reading operational state on the basis of the
gathered device-specific information.
20. A program product that allows a computer to execute the
checking method according to any of claims 6, 13, and 19.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The entire disclosure of Japanese Patent Application No.
2006-68804, filed on Mar. 14, 2006, No. 2006-78610, filed on Mar.
22, 2006, and No. 2006-25020, filed on Feb. 1, 2006, are expressly
incorporated by reference herein.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Technical Field
[0003] The present invention relates to a user interface technology
that selects the processing functions of a multifunction
peripheral.
[0004] 2. Related Art
[0005] Heretofor, multifunction systems (known as `MFP systems`
hereinbelow) in which an image input device such as a scanner or
digital camera and an image output device such as a printer or
facsimile are connected via a network and which are able to
implement a plurality of functions by means of a combination of
image input devices and image output devices have been
implemented.
[0006] As an MFP system of this type, JP-A-2000-187573 mentions an
MFP system which, with the object of allowing executable functions
to be easily grasped and the desired functions to be easily
configured, is adapted to be capable of creating transfer path
information indicating all the functions that can be implemented by
a combination of the image input devices and image output devices
that are currently connected to the network and of displaying the
transfer path information on the display screen of the respective
image input devices and image output devices.
[0007] Further, JP-A-2004-153639 describes the fact that, with the
object of reducing complicated configuration processing for
installing an MFP system, in a plurality of multifunction
peripherals connected to a network, configuration processing can be
performed collectively by means of an automatic or manual
instruction by transmitting desired device information to the other
multifunction peripherals and reflecting the device information to
the other multifunction peripherals.
[0008] JP-A-7-302032 mentions an MFP system in which a printer,
copier, scanner, and facsimile or other functions are collectively
installed in a single device as in the past. Such an MFP system can
not only be utilized as a stand-alone printer or scanner but also
functions as a copier without the intervention of a computer, has a
telephone jack, and has a function for transmitting a read
manuscript as a facsimile.
[0009] Furthermore, in the case of the MFP system according to
JP-A-2000-187573, all the functions that can be implemented by
means of a combination of image input devices and image output
devices that are currently connected to the network are displayed
so that the user is able to select the desired function (copier,
facsimile transmission or the like) from among the displayed
functions. As a result, there is the possible unforeseen
inconvenience for the user that a function will be executed by
using a device that was not intended by the user.
[0010] That is, there are instances where, when a color copy
function is selected, for example, a color printer is not actually
present in the vicinity of the user. Here, the user must pick up
the printed matter that is output to a color printer that is far
away from the user, which is inconvenient. There is also the risk
that the printed matter will be output by a color printer on a
different floor or by a color printer in a remote location which is
connected via a WAN, meaning that there is also a problem from the
perspective of the security of the printed matter.
[0011] In addition, depending on the case, the user may consider
that, if a color printer is not in the vicinity, a printout via a
monochrome printer will suffice. However, according to the
invention that appears in JP-A-2000-187573, because it is necessary
to first select the function, it is not possible to deal flexibly
with such a situation.
[0012] Further, in the case of the MFP system that appears in
JP-A-2004-153639, when the network environment or the like is
changed, the user must personally update the device information for
at least the first one. Hence, although it is possible to dispense
with the need to configure the same device information for a
plurality of multifunction peripherals, there is room for
improvement with respect to completely automating the configuration
processing.
[0013] Furthermore, in the case of the MFP system that appears in
JP-A-2004-153639, the synchronization timing for sharing the device
information between a plurality of devices is limited to fixed
cases such as when the user has updated the device information. As
a result, it is difficult to flexibly configure the environment
with respect to an unforeseen even such as system failure.
[0014] In addition, unlike the MFP system appearing in
JP-A-7-302032, a digital multifunction peripheral of the dispersed
device-type constituted such that each of the devices constituting
the MFP system are disposed dispersed over the network, being
installed in separate locations, has been proposed. Such a digital
multifunction peripheral may have, for example, a
manuscript-reading device for reading manuscripts (scanner)
installed in a separate location from the image-forming device
(printer), which are each connected by means of a network or the
like. A dispersed-device-type digital multifunction peripheral of
this type is capable of dispersing the locations in which the
respective devices constituting the digital multifunction
peripheral are installed. Hence, the freedom in the layout when the
digital multifunction peripheral is installed increases. However,
the respective devices which are disposed in dispersed fashion are
dedicated devices that constitute part of the digital multifunction
peripheral. A general-purpose scanner, for example, cannot be used
as the manuscript-reading device of the digital multifunction
peripheral.
SUMMARY
[0015] The present invention was conceived in view of such a
situation, a first aspect of the present invention being to provide
an MFP system making it possible to easily select and execute a
desired processing function as a result of the user combining
optional devices in an MFP system in which devices such as a
scanner and a printer and so forth are disposed in dispersed
fashion on a network.
[0016] Furthermore, a second aspect of the present invention is to
provide an MFP system in which a plurality of multifunction
peripheral units are disposed dispersed on a network, in which
system individual multifunction peripheral units automatically
acquire information related to devices such as a scanner that
performs processing to synchronize data with optional timing.
[0017] In addition, an advantage of some aspects of the invention
is the ability to constitute a digital multifunction peripheral by
freely combining a general-purpose I/O device. Further, in the case
of a terminal device that executes print instructions and so forth,
a third aspect is the ability to perform driverless printing and so
forth without the need to install a driver for controlling the
device.
[0018] In order to resolve the first aspect, the multifunction
peripheral of the present invention comprises list transmission
means that creates a list of devices connected to a network and
transmits the list to a user terminal; device information reception
means that receives information on a device selected by the user
from a user terminal constituting the transmission destination for
the list; processing function list transmission means that creates
a list of the processing functions that can be executed by the
device on the basis of the received device information and
transmits the list of the processing functions to the user
terminal; processing function information reception means that
receives information on a processing function selected by the user
from a user terminal constituting the transmission destination for
the processing function list; and execution control means that
controls the device to execute the processing function on the basis
of the received device information and processing function
information.
[0019] `Devices` according to the present invention signifies
devices capable of inputting and/or outputting information such as
images and so forth and include image input devices such as
scanners and image output devices such as printers. Further,
`processing functions` include functions that can be implemented by
optionally combining image input devices and image output devices
such as a copy function, a network scanner (image capture)
function, a facsimile function, a projection function, and a
binding function.
[0020] According to the present invention, a list of devices that
can be utilized is first presented on a first screen of a browser
terminal used by the user, whereupon a list of processing functions
is presented on a second screen. Accordingly, the user first
selects the device that is to be used and then selects the
processing function that they wish to execute. Thus, by using a
multifunction peripheral unit that is connected to devices such as
a scanner and printer via a network, the desired processing
functions are easily selected by combining the optional devices so
that the desired processing functions can be executed.
[0021] Furthermore, under the condition that devices such as a
scanner and printer are disposed dispersed on a network, a user
interface that flexibly fulfils the purpose of the user and follows
the line of flow of the user by allowing the user to first select
the device that is to be used and then select what the processing
function permitted by the device is to be can be provided.
[0022] Further, preferably speaking, the multifunction peripheral
further comprises device-specific information storage means that
stores device-specific information for identifying devices
connected to the network, wherein the list transmission means
references information stored in the device-specific information
storage means to create the list.
[0023] According to the present invention, devices that are
connected to the network can be reliably managed by utilizing the
device-specific information storage means.
[0024] In addition, preferably speaking, the multifunction
peripheral unit further comprises UI information storage means that
stores information related to the processing functions that can be
executed by the respective devices connected to the network,
wherein the processing function list transmission means references
the information stored in the UI information storage means to
create a list of the processing functions.
[0025] According to the present invention, the processing functions
that can be performed by using the device selected by the user can
be easily extracted by using UI information storage means.
[0026] In addition, preferably speaking, the multifunction
peripheral unit further comprises model information storage means
that associates and stores device-specific information on devices
that can be connected to the network and information relating to
drivers for controlling the devices; and means that, when a device
is newly connected to the network, searches the model information
storage means based on the device-specific information on the newly
connected device and installs a driver for the newly connected
device.
[0027] According to the present invention, when a device is newly
connected to the network, the driver for controlling the newly
connected device can be automatically installed.
[0028] Furthermore, the multifunction system of the present
invention is a system in which a multifunction peripheral unit, a
user terminal, and a plurality of devices are connected to a
network. Further, the multifunction peripheral unit comprises list
transmission means that creates a list of devices connected to the
network and transmits the list to the user terminal; device
information reception means that receives information on a device
selected by the user from a user terminal constituting the
transmission destination for the list; processing function list
transmission means that, based on the received device information,
creates a list of the processing functions that can be executed by
the device and transmits the list of is the processing functions to
the user terminal; processing function information reception means
that receives information on a processing function selected by the
user from a user terminal constituting the transmission destination
for the processing function list; and execution control means that
controls the device to execute the processing function on the basis
of the received device information and processing function
information. Further, the user terminal comprises list presentation
means that receives the list from the multifunction peripheral unit
and presents the list to the user; device information transmission
means that transmits information on a device selected from the list
to the multifunction peripheral unit; processing function list
presentation means that receives the processing function list from
the multifunction peripheral unit and presents the processing
function list to the user; and processing function information
transmission means that transmits information on the processing
function selected from the processing function list to the
multifunction peripheral unit.
[0029] According to the present invention, an available device list
is first presented on a first screen of the browser terminal used
by the user, whereupon a processing function list is presented via
a second screen. Accordingly, as a result of first selecting the
device that is to be used and then selecting the processing
function to be executed, the user is able to execute the desired
processing function by easily selecting the desired processing
function by combining optional devices of an MFP system in which
devices such as a scanner and a printer are disposed dispersed on a
network.
[0030] Furthermore, the processing function selection method
according to the present invention is a method that allows a user
to select a processing function, of a multifunction peripheral unit
that comprises control means that controls the multifunction
peripheral unit, the method comprising a step in which the control
means creates a list of devices connected to a network and
transmits the list to a user terminal; a step in which the control
means receives information on a device selected by the user from a
user terminal constituting the transmission destination for the
list; a step in which the control means creates a list of the
processing functions that can be executed by the device based on
the received device information and transmits the list of the
processing functions to the user terminal; a step in which the
control means receives information on a processing function
selected by the user from a user terminal constituting the
transmission destination for the processing function list; and a
step in which the control means controls the device to execute the
processing function on the basis of the received device information
and processing function information.
[0031] According to the present invention, an available device list
is first presented on a first screen of the browser terminal used
by the user, whereupon a processing function list is presented via
a second screen. Accordingly, the user first selects a device that
is to be used and then selects the processing function to be
executed. Thus, a method in which a desired processing function is
executed by easily selecting the desired processing function by
combining optional devices can be provided.
[0032] In order to resolve the second aspect, the multifunction
peripheral unit of the present invention comprises storage means
for storing at least device-specific information which allows
devices connected to a network to be identified, and which is
automatically acquired from the devices; data synchronization means
for sharing device-specific information by synchronizing
device-specific information to be stored in the storage means and
another storage means, which another multifunction peripheral unit
connected to the network comprises, between the storage means and
the other storage means; and activation means for activating the
data synchronization means with pre-specified timing.
[0033] According to the present invention, a multifunction
peripheral unit that automatically acquires and manages information
related to devices such as a scanner can be provided. Further, the
multifunction peripheral unit is able to perform processing for
data synchronization with other multifunction peripheral units with
optional timing. Hence, synchronization processing of shared data
can be executed with the required timing without placing an
unnecessary load on the communication traffic.
[0034] Furthermore, the multifunction peripheral unit further
comprises installation means that references device-specific
information stored in the storage means and installs a driver for
controlling a device specified by the device-specific information,
wherein the data synchronization means synchronizes the
driver-related information, in addition to the device-specific
information, between the multifunction peripheral unit and the
other multifunction peripheral unit.
[0035] According to the present invention, it is possible to share
and manage drivers for controlling devices connected to the network
between a plurality of multifunction peripheral units and
processing to set the drivers can be easily carried out.
[0036] In addition, the activation means of the multifunction
peripheral unit activates the data synchronization means with the
timing at which the power supply of the multifunction peripheral
unit itself is turned ON or with the timing at which the
multifunction peripheral unit itself recovers from failure.
[0037] According to the present invention, data synchronization
processing can be activated flexibly with various timing in
accordance with the state of the system. Hence, the environment can
be established flexibly for unexpected events such as system
failure.
[0038] Furthermore, in the multifunction system of the present
invention, a plurality of multifunction peripheral units are
connected to a network. Here, each of the multifunction peripheral
units comprises storage means for storing at least device-specific
information which allows devices connected to the network to be
identified and which is automatically acquired from the devices;
data synchronization means for sharing device-specific information
by synchronizing device-specific information to be stored in the
storage means and another storage means, which another
multifunction peripheral unit connected to the network comprises,
between the storage means and the other storage means; and
activation means for activating the data synchronization means with
pre-specified timing.
[0039] Furthermore, the data synchronization method according to
the present invention is a data synchronization method of a
multifunction peripheral unit that has control means for
controlling processing of the multifunction peripheral unit and
storage means for storing at least device-specific information that
allows devices to be identified. First, the control means acquires
device-specific information from devices connected to the network
and stores the acquired device-specific information in the storage
means. Thereafter, the control means shares device-specific
information by synchronizing device-specific information to be
stored in the storage means and another storage means, which
another multifunction peripheral unit connected to the network
comprises, between the storage means and the other storage means
with pre-specified timing.
[0040] According to the present invention, a multifunction
peripheral unit in which information relating to devices such as a
scanner is automatically acquired and managed can be provided.
Further, the multifunction peripheral unit is able to execute
processing for data synchronization with other multifunction
peripheral units with optional timing. Hence, the environment can
be established flexibly in accordance with the state of the system.
In addition, because a plurality of multifunction peripheral units
are disposed dispersed on the network, measures against system
failure involving load distribution and redundancy and so forth can
be obtained.
[0041] The program of the present invention allows a computer to
execute the respective processing steps of the data synchronization
method of the present invention. The program of the present
invention can be installed or loaded on the computer via a variety
of recording media such as an optical disk such as a CD-ROM, a
magnetic disk, or semiconductor memory or as a result of a download
via a communication network.
[0042] In order to resolve the third aspect of the present
invention, the multifunction peripheral of the present invention
comprises model information storage means that associates and
stores information related to devices such as peripheral devices
and device drivers for controlling the devices; communication means
for gathering device-specific information for identifying the
devices between the devices connected to the network; and checking
means that places a device driver that corresponds with a device
specified by the device-specific information gathered from the
model information storage means in a reading operational state on
the basis of the device-specific information gathered by the
communication means. According to the present invention, a digital
multifunctional peripheral can be constituted by freely combining
general-purpose I/O devices as a result of the multifunction
peripheral automatically gathering and checking device-specific
information and automatically reading the device drivers of the
devices connected to the network. Furthermore, printing can be
performed driverlessly by a terminal device that executes print
instructions and so forth.
[0043] Preferably, with the multifunction peripheral of the present
invention, information relating to the devices such as peripheral
devices and device drivers for controlling the devices are
associated and stored in the model information storage means. The
multifunction peripheral preferably further comprises output means
for outputting data acquired by devices controlled by the device
driver placed in an operational state by the checking means. In
this instance, the output means desirably comprises image-forming
means for forming images on the basis of the input data.
Furthermore, the devices connected to the network desirably include
an image-forming device such as a scanner.
[0044] Furthermore, the method of checking the device-specific
information of the multifunction peripheral of the present
invention is a method of checking device-specific information for
identifying devices of a multifunction peripheral that comprises
control means that controls the operation of the multifunction
peripheral and model information storage means that associates and
stores information relating to devices such as peripheral devices
and device drivers for controlling the devices, comprising the
steps of gathering device-specific information on the devices
between the devices connected to the network; and placing a device
driver that corresponds to a device specified by the
device-specific information gathered from the model information
storage means in a reading operational state on the basis of the
gathered device-specific information. According to the present
invention, a digital multifunctional peripheral can be constituted
by freely combining general-purpose I/O devices as a result of the
multifunction peripheral automatically gathering and checking
device-specific information and automatically reading the device
drivers of the devices connected to the network. Furthermore,
printing can be performed driverlessly by a terminal device that
executes print instructions and so forth.
[0045] The program of the present invention allows a computer to
execute the respective processing steps of the processing function
selection method of the present invention. The program of the
present invention can be installed or loaded on the computer via a
variety of recording media such as an optical disk such as a
CD-ROM, a magnetic disk, or semiconductor memory or as a result of
a download via a communication network.
[0046] `Device-specific information` of the present invention is
information that permits devices which are connected to the network
to be uniquely identified on the network and is information that
the respective devices hold uniquely. More specifically, for
example, device-specific information is constituted by means of a
combination of product names, product serial numbers, fabrication
dates, and version numbers. Further, `model information` of the
present invention is information relating to the models of the
respective devices (products) that are controlled by the
multifunction peripheral of the present invention.
[0047] In the case of the present invention, `means` does not
simply signify physical means but rather also includes cases where
the functions of the means are implemented by software. In
addition, the functions that one means possesses may be implemented
by two or more physical means or the functions of two or more means
may be implemented by one physical means.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0048] FIG. 1 shows a schematic constitution of an MFP system 100
according to a first embodiment of the present invention;
[0049] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the constitution of the
functions of a unit 20;
[0050] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an example of the system
constitution of the MFP system 100 according to the first
embodiment;
[0051] FIG. 4 shows an example of the table constitution of a
device-specific information table 24 according to the first
embodiment;
[0052] FIG. 5 shows an example of the table constitution of a model
information table 25 according to the first embodiment;
[0053] FIG. 6 shows an example of a data structure that is stored
in the IU information storage means 26;
[0054] FIG. 7 shows the flow of processing when a device 30 is
newly connected;
[0055] FIG. 8 is a sequence chart when the processing functions are
executed;
[0056] FIG. 9 shows an example of a first screen 41 that is
presented on a browser terminal 40,
[0057] FIG. 10 shows an example of a second screen 42 that is
presented on the browser terminal 40;
[0058] FIG. 11 shows an example of a third screen 43 that is
presented on the browser terminal 40;
[0059] FIG. 12 is a flow chart showing the flow of the data
synchronization processing;
[0060] FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing an example of the system
constitution of the MFP system 100 according to a second
embodiment;
[0061] FIG. 14 is an example of a table constitutional view of the
device-specific information table 24 according to the first
embodiment;
[0062] FIG. 15 is an example of a table constitutional view of a
model information table 25 according to the first embodiment;
[0063] FIG. 16 shows the flow of processing to collect
device-specific information;
[0064] FIG. 17 is an example of a processing instruction screen
that is displayed by the browser terminal 40; and
[0065] FIG. 18 shows the flow of the processing that issues an
output instruction to the unit 20.
DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS
[0066] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in
detail hereinbelow. The same numerals are assigned to the same
elements and repetitive description is omitted. Furthermore, the
following embodiments are illustrations serving to explain the
present invention, there being no intention to limit the present
invention to these embodiments. In addition, a variety of
modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the
present invention.
[0067] FIG. 1 shows a schematic constitution of multifunction
system 100 according to the first embodiment of the present
invention (referred to as `MFP system 100` hereinbelow). As shown
in FIG. 1, this MFP system 100 is constituted having one or more
digital multifunction peripheral units 20 (called `unit 20`
hereinbelow) connected to a network 10. Further, various devices 30
capable of inputting and outputting images and so forth are
connected to the network 10 or unit 20. In addition, the MFP system
100 is constituted comprising the browser terminal 40.
[0068] The network 10 is a communication line for sending and
receiving information between the units 20, various devices 30 or
the browser terminal 40 and may be a LAN, the Internet, a dedicated
line, a packet communication network, a telephone line, another
communication line, or a combination thereof, for example, and may
be either a wired or wireless communication line.
[0069] The units 20 are computer devices which manage
device-specific information for the device 30 which is connected to
the network 10 and control optional devices 30. Further, the units
20 connect devices 30 such as a print engine to a path or
externally connect the devices 30 via a local connection terminal
such as a USB, whereby it is possible to perform control of the
devices 30. Further, a variety of processing functions such as
printing, copying, image capture, and facsimile by suitably
combining any two or more of the following devices: an optional
device 30 that is connected to the network 10, a device 30 that is
connected to the path of the unit 20, or a device 30 that is
connected externally to the unit 20 via a USB or other local
connection terminal.
[0070] In addition, the respective units 20 comprise storage means
for storing and managing data and are constituted such that, in
cases where a plurality of units 20 are connected to the network
10, there is co-operation between a plurality of predetermined
optional units 20 such that same virtually act as one unit and
common data are synchronized.
[0071] Here, an optional procedure can be adopted for the common
management of data. For example, one data item can be divided and
stored and managed in batches by a plurality of units 20 or the
same data may be copied and stored redundantly by a plurality of
units 20 (so-called mirroring). In addition, common data may be
stored to one unit 20 while another unit 20 assigns a link by
recording the path to the common data. In addition, identifiers may
be indexed and stored for common data in one unit 20 while another
unit 20 may use the identifiers to reference the common data.
[0072] The device 30 is connected to the network 10 or unit 20 and
has a function that makes it possible to input or output images and
so forth. More specifically, the devices 30 include the following
devices.
[0073] Devices for inputting images and so forth include, for
example, a scanner for optically reading images and so forth that
are displayed on a sheet, a digital whiteboard for optically
reading images and so forth that are displayed on a board, and a
digital camera or the like that records photographed images as
digital data.
[0074] Devices for outputting images and so forth include, for
example, an image-forming device such as a printer that forms an
image by means of an electronic transfer system or the like, a
projector that projects images onto a screen, a viewer or the like
that displays images on a display means such as a liquid-crystal
panel.
[0075] Furthermore, devices for inputting and outputting images and
so forth include, for example, a FAX modem that transmits or
receives facsimiles and storage for optically or magnetically
storing data such as a hard disk device. Further, FAX modems
include not only those provided in a personal computer but also a
dedicated facsimile device that can be connected to the network 10.
In addition, the storage includes a hard disk device that a
personal computer (called a `PC` hereinbelow) comprises and storage
that is connected indirectly to the network 10.
[0076] Further, in this specification, when there is no need to
distinguish the types of devices connected to the network, devices
connected to the network are described using the collective term
`device 30`.
[0077] The browser terminal 40 is a device for communicating with
the unit 20 via the network 10 or directly by means of infrared
communications. This may be any device as long as same comprises a
Web browser for reading information that is distributed by the Web
server. For example, a PC, cellular phone, or personal digital
assistant (PDA) or the like fall into this category. A processing
device such as a CPU that the browser terminal 40 comprises allows
the browser terminal 40 to function as means for presenting
predetermined information or send/receive means by executing a
predetermined program that is stored in a memory or external
storage device or the like.
[0078] The user of the MFP system 100 is able to issue a processing
instruction by using the browser terminal 40 to access an optional
unit 20. When the external storage device is provided in the
browser terminal 40, the external storage device functions as a
storage device (device 30) that is connected to the network 10.
[0079] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the constitution of the
functions of unit 20. Unit 20 comprises a PC module 21 and an
output module 28. The PC module 21 has a function that combines a
server, driver, and controller with a device 30 such as a printer.
Further, the PC module 21 further comprises an MFP module 22, a DB
module 23, and a Web server module 27.
[0080] The MFP module 22 is a module serving to communicate with
other devices (units 20, devices 30, and browser terminal 40). The
MFP module 22 comprises means for transmitting or receiving various
information to and from other optional devices, means for acquiring
device-specific information on the devices 30 connected to the
network 10 and registering this information in the device-specific
information table 24 (described subsequently), means for installing
a driver, on the unit 20, for identifying newly connected devices
30 based on the device-specific information and controlling the
devices 30, and means for controlling the execution of the
processing of the devices 30 in cases where the driver of the
devices 30 has been installed.
[0081] As a result of the MFP module 22 communicating with optional
devices 30 which are connected to the network 10 and controlling
these devices 30, the unit 20 provides various functions (printing,
copying, image capture, facsimile and so forth) for multifunction
peripherals (MFP) by combining optional devices 30
[0082] The DB module 23 is a module for recording and managing, as
a database (DB), in the storage means a variety of information that
is required by the unit 20 for controlling and managing the MFP
system 100. Furthermore, the DB module 23 comprises data
synchronization means that perform synchronization processing on
common data by co-operating with the DB module 23 of another unit
20. In addition, means for activating the data synchronization
means with pre-specified timing are provided. In this embodiment, a
device-specific information table (device-specific information
storage means) 24 for recording and managing device-specific
information of the device 30 that is connected to the network 10, a
model information table (model information storage means) 25 for
registering model information of devices that the unit 20 is able
to control, and UI information storage means 26 for storing
information relating to the user interface (referred to as `UI`
hereinbelow) presented on the browser terminal 40 of the user
utilizing the MFP system 100 are recorded and managed by the DB
module 23.
[0083] Although not illustrated here, the DB module 23 records and
manages not only device-specific information and information
relating to other devices but also records and manages various
information. For example, general files, information on the
locations of other units 20, and management information including
user IDs and passwords are managed.
[0084] The device-specific information table 24 is a table that
manages device-specific information on the devices 30 connected to
the network 10 and holds device-specific information including the
product name, for example, for each individual device 30. The table
24 may additionally store information such as the serial number,
fabrication date, and location. The units 20 grasp which devices 30
are connected to the network 10 by referencing the table 24.
Further, based on the device-specific information recorded in the
table 24, the unit 20 performs processing to control the respective
devices 30 and present the available devices to the user.
[0085] The model information table 25 records and manages model
information for installing the required drivers as a result of the
unit 20 checking the devices 30 when a device 30 is newly connected
to the network 10. The model information table 25 records and
manages model information for products that can be utilized by the
unit 20 and, when a new model such as a new product comes onto the
market, model information corresponding to the new model is
acquired from a database or the like of a predetermined server
computer (not illustrated here) that is determined beforehand, and
additionally registered in the model information table 25. For
example, each time a new product is released, model information on
the new product is additionally registered on the manufacturer's
web site and the unit 20 accesses a predetermined server computer
(mentioned earlier) with predetermined timing such as when a device
30 is newly connected to the network 10, automatically downloads
model information on the new product, and additionally registers
the model information in the model information table 25. Further,
the new registered processing is preferably executed in the
background.
[0086] The screen information and transitions thereof which are
presented on the browser terminal 40 that has accessed the unit 20
are recorded and managed by the UI information storage means 26. By
referencing the UI information storage means 26, the unit 20 first
presents a first screen for selecting the device to be used from a
device list that is connected to the network 10 on the browser
terminal 40 and then presents a second screen on which a list of
the processing functions that can be executed by using the selected
device are displayed.
[0087] The Web server module 27 is a module that comprises means
that function as a Web server for distributing Web information.
Communication is performed with the browser terminal 40 directly by
means of infrared communications via the network 10 and Web
information is distributed to the browser terminal 40. The browser
terminal 40 produces a screen display or the like based on the
received Web information.
[0088] Further, when a plurality of units 20 are connected to the
network 10, PC modules 21 that the respective units 20 comprise
co-operate with one another such that information which is managed
by the respective DB modules 23 is made common information, and, as
a result of the respective modules 22, 23, and 27 performing
processing in sync with each other, the plurality of units 20
function so as to behave as one virtual unit.
[0089] The output module 28 is a module comprising means for
inputting and outputting data such as images. Here, the I/O means
include, for example, devices such as image-forming means for
forming images by means of an electronic transfer system or the
like on the basis of input data (a so-called `print engine`), an
RGB output terminal for outputting images as a display to a display
or the like, and a hard disk device (external storage device) for
inputting and outputting files.
[0090] Modules are the units of a component that has a group of
functions. The respective modules are constituted by dedicated
hardware or by software that is implemented as a result of control
means such as a CPU executing a predetermined program that is
stored in memory or the like. The respective modules above may be
constituted by a single piece of hardware; the respective modules
may each be constituted by individual pieces of hardware. The
respective modules may also be implemented by software in one or a
plurality of computers.
[0091] The present invention will be described next by assuming a
specific system constitution
First Embodiment
[0092] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an example of a specific system
constitution of the MFP system 100. In the example shown in FIG. 3,
two units 20A and 20B are connected to the network 10. Further, a
monochrome printer 30A and a scanner 30B are connected externally
to a unit 20A. Further, connected to the network 10 are a hard disk
device (referred to as `HDD` hereinbelow) 30D, a color printer 30E,
a scanner 30F, and a FAX modem 30G. The FAX modem 30G is connected
to a telephone line network 15 so that FAX data can be sent and
received via the telephone line network 15.
[0093] In addition, a PC40A comprising a HDD 30C is connected to
the network 10. The HDD30C is then connected to the network 10 via
the PC40A. Further, a portable terminal 40B that comprises the Web
browser is then able to communicate directly with the unit 20A by
means of infrared communications.
[0094] FIG. 4 shows an example of the table constitution of the
device-specific information table 24. As shown in FIG. 4, the
device-specific information table 24 comprises a device-specific
information field 51 for devices 30 (30A to 30G in the first
embodiment) that are connected to the network 10 and a reference
information field 52 that is set by the administrator or the like.
In the example shown in FIG. 4, the device-specific information
field 51 contains a product name field 53 that indicates the
product name, a product serial number field 54 that indicates the
product serial number, a manufacturing date field 55 that indicates
the manufacturing date, and a version number field 56 that
indicates the version number. Further, the reference information
field 52 contains a general name field 57, a location field 58, and
a group field 59 for the devices.
[0095] The units 20 automatically negotiates with the respective
devices 30 that are connected to the network 10 to acquire
information that is stored in the device-specific information field
51. Further, `negotiation` signifies that two devices communicate
while exchanging information with one another.
[0096] Furthermore, although the location field 58 is a field that
indicates the installation point of the device, in the present
invention, `location` is not limited to the physical installation
point when a device or the like is installed and may also signify a
logical position on a network.
[0097] The administrator or the like of the network 10 sets and
registers groups for the respective devices 30 in the group field
59. The unit 20 exercises control so that only devices that belong
to the same group as the user group to which the user belongs can
be used. Thus, by setting groups for the devices, access to the
respective devices can be managed in group units. Hence, devices
that can be utilized can be flexibly configured for each user
group. When groups have not been set such as directly after
device-specific information has been registered, the devices are
preferably set to belong to all the groups.
[0098] FIG. 5 is an example that shows an example of the table
constitution of the model information table 25. As shown in FIG. 5,
the model information table 25 contains a product name field 61
that indicates the product name, a product serial number field 62
that indicates the product serial number, and an information field
63 relating to the driver that allows the unit 20 to control the
relevant products. The information field 63 relating to the driver
may be the driver execution program or may be link information for
installing the driver. Further, if required, an information field
64 for the manufacturing date and the version number and so forth
may also be included.
[0099] The model information table 25 stores and manages
information relating to the models (products) that can be utilized
by the unit 20. When a new model such as a new product comes onto
the market, model information corresponding to the new model is
registered in the database of a predetermined computer (not
illustrated) which is determined beforehand. For example, each time
a new product is released, model information on the new model is
additionally registered on the manufacturer's web site. The unit 20
accesses a the above-mentioned predetermined computer with
predetermined timing such as when a device is newly connected to
the network 10, and model information on the new model is
automatically downloaded and additionally registered in the model
information table 25. Further, the new registration processing is
executed in the background.
[0100] FIG. 6 shows an example of the data structure that is stored
in the UI information storage means 26. As shown in FIG. 6,
information related to the state transition of the screen presented
on the browser terminal 40 is managed by means of a tree structure
by the UI information storage means 26. A list of the devices that
can be used by the MFP system 100 is managed by a root part 71 of
this tree structure. A child node 72 exists for each device and a
list of processing functions that can be executed by using the
respective devices is managed. In addition, a descendant node 73
exists for each processing function and a list of devices that are
required when executing the processing functions that employ each
device is managed.
[0101] An overview of the operation of the MFP system according to
the first embodiment will be described next.
First Embodiment
[0102] The first embodiment relates to a user interface technology
according to which the unit 20 selects the processing functions of
the MFP system 100. As will be detailed hereinbelow, the user
interface technology is constituted such that a list of the devices
that are currently connected to the network is presented to the
user. In addition, the user interface technology is constituted
such that, after the user has selected the device that is to be
used, a list of the processing functions that can be executed by
the selected device is presented to the user. As a result, once the
user has selected the device that is to be used, it is possible to
select which processing is to be executed by using this device.
[0103] FIG. 7 is a flowchart that shows the flow of processing when
a device 30 is newly connected to the network 10.
[0104] First, when a device 30 such as a scanner is newly connected
to the network 10, the unit 20 negotiates with the device 30
gathers device-specific information and stores same in the
device-specific information table 24 (S110). Thereafter, the unit
20 checks the device-specific information against the model
information table 25 and acquires information relating to the
driver required for the control of the newly connected device 30
(S112). Because the information relating to the driver stores the
link destination where the driver is stored or a driver program,
the driver is installed based on this information (S114). Thus, the
unit 20 is able to register and manage the device-specific
information for the device 30 connected to the network 10 in the
device-specific information table 24, and install the driver that
controls each device 30 in the unit 20 so that the device 30 can be
utilized by the unit 20.
[0105] FIG. 8 is a sequence chart when the processing functions
such as copying are executed by the MFP system 100.
[0106] The user first accesses the unit 20 by using the Web browser
of the browser terminal 40 (S120). Thereupon, the browser terminal
40 accesses the unit 20 via the network 10 or directly by means of
infrared communications or the like.
[0107] When accessed by the browser terminal 40, the unit 20
searches the device-specific information table 24 and creates a
list of available devices by extracting the devices 30 which are
connected to the network 10 (S122). For example, in the example of
the device-specific information table 24 shown in FIG. 3, when the
user of the browser terminal 40 is the user of group A, a list of
available devices is created by extracting the device-specific
information relating to group A.
[0108] Thereafter, the unit 20 transmits this list to the browser
terminal 40 which first accessed the unit 20 (S124). Thus, when the
list is transmitted by the unit 20 to the browser terminal 40, the
browser terminal 40, which receives this list, presents the list of
available devices in a comprehensible state to the user, more
specifically, by using a method such as displaying the list on a
display device (S126).
[0109] FIG. 9 shows an example of the display screen (first screen)
41 of a list of available devices that are presented on the browser
terminal 40. In the first embodiment, a scanner 1, scanner 2,
monochrome printer, color printer, 40G-HDD, 60G-HDD, and FAX modem
are presented as available devices. When the names and installation
points of the respective devices are contained in the list
transmitted by the unit 20, this information is preferably
presented simultaneously. Furthermore, in addition to a general
name for the devices, it may be possible to present the
characteristics of the respective devices such as A3/A4
compatibility.
[0110] Thereafter, when the user selects the device that is to be
used by means of input means or the like from the list of available
devices presented on the browser terminal 40, information on the
device selected by the user is transmitted by the browser terminal
40 to the unit 20 (S128 in FIG. 8).
[0111] The unit 20 creates a list of processing functions that can
be executed by the MFP system 100 by using the device on the basis
of the information on the device selected by the user (S130). More
specifically, the unit 20 searches the UI information storage means
26 on the basis of the information on the selected device received
from the browser terminal 40 and uses the device selected by the
user to extract candidates for the executable processing functions.
In addition, by referencing the device-specific information table
24, unnecessary processing functions come to be removed from among
the candidates, such unnecessary processing functions being mixed
up with the devices currently connected to the network 10. Thus, a
list of the processing functions that can be executed by the user
by using the selected device is created. Further, preferably
speaking, when the list of processing functions is created, user
groups may be added.
[0112] Following the creation of the list, the unit 20 transmits a
list of the processing functions to the browser terminal 40 which
was the transmission source of the selected device information
(S132). Thereafter, the browser terminal 40 which received the list
of processing functions presents a list of processing functions in
a state that is comprehensible to the user and, more specifically,
by means of a method such as a display on a display device
(S134).
[0113] FIG. 10 shows an example of a display screen (second screen)
42 for the list of processing functions that is presented on the
browser terminal 40. Here, assuming that `scanner 1` has been
selected by the user via the first screen, `copy`, `image capture`,
and `FAX transmission` are displayed as a list as processing
functions that can be executed by the MFP system 100 by using the
`scanner 1`.
[0114] Thereafter, when the user uses the input means or the like
to select a desired processing function from among the list of
processing functions presented on the browser terminal 40,
information relating to the processing functions selected by the
user is transmitted by the browser terminal 40 to the unit 20 (S136
in FIG. 8).
[0115] When the unit 20 executes the device and processing function
selected by the user on the basis of the received
processing-function-related information and the information
recorded in the UI information storage means 26 and device-specific
information table 24, it is judged whether it is necessary to add
and select an input device or output device (S138).
[0116] For example, in the first embodiment, when the user selects
`copy` via the second screen, the unit 20 identifies the fact that
the output device is a printer on the basis of the information
recorded in the UI information storage means 26. Thereupon, when
the device-specific information table 24 is referenced, because it
can be seen that two printers are connected to the network 10, it
is clear that it is necessary to additionally select which of the
two printers is to execute the print processing.
[0117] Meanwhile, when the user selects `FAX transmission` via the
second screen, the unit 20 is able to uniquely specify that the
device that transmitted the image captured by the scanner 1 as a
FAX transmission is the FAX modem 30G on the basis of the UI
information storage means 26 and device-specific information table
24. Hence, the unit 20 is then able to judge that it is not
necessary to select any more devices.
[0118] Thus, the unit 20 judges whether there is a need for an
additional selection of a device and, when it is necessary to
additionally select a device, the unit 20 creates a list of
additional selection devices relating to an input device or output
device for executing a desired processing function and transmits
the additional list to the browser terminal 40 (S140). Further, the
unit 20 presents the addition list thus received by means of a
method such as a display on the display device of the browser
terminal 40 (S142).
[0119] FIG. 11 shows an example of a display screen (third screen)
43 of a list of additional selection devices that is presented on
the browser terminal 40. Here, assuming that the user selects
`scanner 1` via the first screen and selects `copy` via the second
screen, a list of output devices that can be utilized in the copy
processing for the image captured by the `scanner 1`, that is, a
list of available printers is displayed. Thus, the user selection
with respect to which printer is to be used for the printing (copy
processing) is awaited.
[0120] Thereafter, when the user uses input means or the like to
select the device that is to be utilized from among the list of
additional selection devices presented on the browser terminal 40,
information on the device selected by the user is transmitted by
the browser terminal 40 to the unit 20 (S144 in FIG. 8).
[0121] Further, when it is judged that it is not necessary to
additionally select a device in step S138 or when information on an
additionally selected device is received from the browser terminal
40, the unit 20 exercises control so that the processing function
designated by the user is executed with respect to the devices 30
determined on the basis of the user selection (S146).
[0122] For example, according to the first embodiment, when the
user has selected the `scanner 1` via the first screen, `copy` via
the second screen, and `color printer` via the third screen, the
unit 20 controls the scanner 1 (device 30B) to scan the image from
the sheet and acquire image data, and exercises control to send the
acquired image data to the color printer (device 30E) and execute
printing. Thus, by combining optional devices 30 that are disposed
dispersed on the network 10, it is possible to execute processing
functions such as printing, copying, image capture, and
facsimile.
[0123] As outlined hereinabove, a list of available devices is
first presented on the first screen by the browser terminal 40 used
by the user of the MFP system 100, whereupon a list of processing
functions is presented on the second screen. The user initially
selects the device that is to be used and then selects the
processing function that the user desires to execute. Thus,
according to the present invention, the selection of the device to
be used is made prior to the selection of the processing function
mainly for the following reasons.
[0124] In other words, in the case of a digital multifunction
peripheral in which the scanner and printer are integrally formed,
for example, even when the processing function is first selected,
because the processing function may be executed by using a device
such as the scanner or printer that are formed integrally with the
multifunction peripheral, there is no particular inconvenience.
However, in the case of the multifunction peripheral according to
the first embodiment (digital multifunction peripheral unit) that
is based on the premise of a situation where devices such as a
scanner and printer are disposed dispersed on a network, when the
processing function is selected first, a situation where the device
that executes the processing function is installed in a remote
location arises. In such a case, this has the negative result that
printed matter comes out on the wrong floor, for example, and
adversely affects the aims of the user wishing to use the
multifunction peripheral.
[0125] Further, the user will often consider performing some kind
of processing using devices in the user's own vicinity. For
example, if a printer is only installed in a remote location, the
user will sometimes abandon printing and instead consider
prioritizing the storage of images as files for the time being.
[0126] Therefore, according to the present invention, by selecting
the device that is to be used without first selecting the
processing function, it is possible to meet the needs of the user
who is prioritizing the execution of processing functions of
various types by using a device in the user's own vicinity.
[0127] Further, although the selection of a device that has been
additionally added via the third screen is implemented in the first
embodiment, the present invention is not limited to such selection.
For example, a pre-specified device is set by default for each
device item such as a scanner and printer and, instead of selecting
a device via the third screen, the device which has been set by
default may be used to execute processing. Further, in cases where
a plurality of FAX modems are installed in the network 10, when one
FAX modem is occupied, sorting control may be performed in order to
perform FAX send/receive processing by using another FAX modem.
[0128] Furthermore, when there are a plurality of devices which are
the same device item are installed, distributed processing of a
task may be performed using a plurality of devices. In particular,
when distributed processing of a print task is executed when there
are a plurality of printers and when distributed processing of a
FAX send/receive task is executed when there are a plurality of FAX
modems, an improvement in productivity can be expected.
Second Embodiment
[0129] An overview of the operation of an MFP system according to
the second embodiment will be described next. The second embodiment
relates to a data synchronization processing technology when a
database is shared between a plurality of units 20. Further, here,
a description will be provided by assuming, for example, that unit
20A and unit 20B in the constitution illustrated in FIG. 3 exist in
remote locations (Tokyo and Osaka, for example) and a first LAN
(the LAN of the head office in Tokyo, for example), which comprises
unit 20A, devices 30A, 30B, 30C, 30E, and 30F and a browser
terminal 40A, and a second LAN which comprises unit 20B and devices
30D and 30G (the LAN of the Nagano branch office, for example) are
connected via a network to form a WAN.
[0130] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the flow of data
synchronization processing between a plurality of units 20.
Further, `data synchronization processing` is processing which,
when a database that is managed by any unit 20 among the plurality
of units 20 is updated, updates the database of another unit 20
with predetermined timing and reflects the updated information in
the other unit 20.
[0131] First, when a device 30 such as a scanner is newly connected
to the network 10 or the like, the unit 20 negotiates with the
device 30, collects device-specific information, and stores same in
a database (device-specific information table 24) (S150). For
example, when the printer 30E is connected to the network 10,
negotiation with unit 20A is performed and unit 20A acquires
device-specific information from the printer 30E and additionally
registers the device-specific information in the database of the
unit 20A.
[0132] Thereafter, the device-specific information is compared with
that of the model information table 25 and information related to
the driver required for control of the printer 30E that is newly
connected is acquired (S152). The driver-related information stores
the link destination where the driver is stored or a driver
program, and, therefore, the driver is installed based on this
information (S154). Thus, the unit 20A is able to additionally
register the device-specific information for the printer 30E
connected to the network 10 in the database and install the driver
that controls printer 30E in the unit 20A so that the printer 30E
can be utilized by the unit 20A.
[0133] Thereafter, a plurality of units 20 activate and execute
data synchronization processing with predetermined timing (S156).
More specifically, mutual communication is carried out between an
arbitrary plurality of units 20 that are determined beforehand and,
when it is detected that the content of the respective databases
does not match, data synchronization processing is performed by
sending and receiving the required data. Thereupon, the respective
databases may be updated on the basis of the data that has been
updated since data synchronization processing was first
performed.
[0134] In the above example, units 20A and 20B mutually communicate
and exchange information with predetermined timing and, when it is
judged that device-specific information and driver-related
information for printer 30E has been newly registered in unit 20A,
unit 20B performs processing to additionally register this
information in the its own database.
[0135] Further, although the units 20 are able to activate and
execute data synchronization processing with optional timing, it is
preferable that data synchronization processing be executed when
some kind of event occurs with the MFP system 100 and that
synchronization between a plurality of databases be performed. In
particular, data synchronization processing may be executed when
the units 20 are powered up, when the units 20 have recovered from
a breakdown, when the occurrence of some kind of failure with the
MFP system 100 is detected, when it is detected that a device 30
has been added to or removed from the network 10, or when an
instruction to add a device is received from the browser terminal
40.
[0136] As detailed hereinabove, in the second embodiment, the
constitution is such that a plurality of units 20 collectively
manage data related to peripheral devices and execute data
synchronization processing with predetermined timing. Thereupon, in
cases where the content of the database is updated through the
addition of device-specific information and so forth, that does not
mean that the addition and update of objects with respect to the
databases of all the units 20 is performed at the same time as the
update. Even when the database is changed, processing is initially
performed on only one of the units 20. Further, synchronization
with the database of another unit 20 is performed with timing that
is determined beforehand (when an event occurs, for example) and,
in the event of a change, the database is updated by transmitting
the information to the other unit 20. In comparison with a method
that involves simultaneously updating all of the databases all of
the time, such an update method has the advantage that the traffic
required for synchronization of the unit 20 is reduced.
[0137] In addition, because it is possible to perform an update in
parallel for a plurality of databases, depending on the case, a
situation where an object that exists on a certain unit 20 cannot
be found on another unit 20 can arise. For example, in cases where
individual device-specific information is added in parallel at the
same time to a plurality of units 20 having separate logical
locations on the network, depending on the unit 20 accessed by the
browser terminal 40, there is the possibility that data such as
additionally registered device-specific information will not be
reflected. Just in case, the constitution is preferably such that,
upon receiving an instruction for the addition of a device or the
like from the browser terminal 40, the units 20 execute data
synchronization processing compulsorily in order that the database
can be updated to the latest state.
Third Embodiment
[0138] Although a case where data synchronization processing
between a plurality of units 20 is automatically executed with
predetermined timing was described in the second embodiment, data
synchronization processing for the whole of the MFP system 100 may
be executed on the basis of an instruction from the user.
Thereupon, the unit 20 that received the instruction from the user
performs data synchronization processing as a result of mutual
communication with all of the units 20 connected to the MFP system
100 and updates the database to the latest state.
[0139] Thus, even in a case where an event such as failure has not
befallen the MFP system 100, because data synchronization
processing is activated and executed compulsorily on the basis of a
user instruction, the unit 20 is then able to send back the latest
data for the whole of the MFP system 100 to the user.
Second Embodiment
[0140] The second embodiment will be described next.
[0141] FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing an example of a specific
system constitution of the MFP system 100 according to the second
embodiment. In the MFP system 100 according to the example shown in
FIG. 13, a unit 20, a browser terminal 40, a scanner 30H, a
projector 301, an image viewer 30J, a digital whiteboard 30K, a
storage device 30M such as a hard disk drive, a server computer
30N, and another device 30L are connected to the network 10.
[0142] Here, the user of the unit 20 uses the browser terminal 40
to instruct the unit 20 to perform print processing or the like.
Further, a general-purpose scanner comprising image-reading means
can be used for the scanner 30H. General-purpose peripheral devices
or other peripheral devices can similarly also be used for the
projector 301 image viewer 30J, digital whiteboard 30K, storage
device 30M such as a hard disk drive, server computer 30N, and
other device 30L.
[0143] FIG. 14 is an example of a table constitutional view of the
device-specific information table 24 of the second embodiment. FIG.
15 is an example of a table constitutional view of the model
information table 25 of the second embodiment. The details of the
device-specific information table 24 and model information table 25
are the same as those described in the first embodiment and,
therefore, a description thereof will be omitted.
[0144] An overview of the operation of the MFP system 100 according
to the second embodiment will be described next.
[0145] First, processing to compare the device-specific
information, which is executed when a device 30 is newly connected
to the network 10, will be described.
[0146] FIG. 16 shows the flow of the processing to compare the
device-specific information of the unit 20. Here, a case where the
scanner 30H is newly connected to the network 10 will be described
by way of example.
[0147] When the scanner 30H is newly connected to the network 10
(S160), the PC module 21 of the unit 20 automatically negotiates
with the newly connected scanner 30H (S162), collects
device-specific information on the scanner 30H, and additionally
registers the device-specific information in the device-specific
information table 24 (S164). In this embodiment, information that
includes the product name, product serial number, manufacturing
date, and version number is collected as the device-specific
information. Thus, the unit 20 collects and manages the
device-specific information on the scanner 30H that has been newly
connected to the network 10.
[0148] After collecting the device-specific information, the unit
20 compares the collected device-specific information with the
model information that has been registered in the model information
table 25 (S166). Here, the unit 20 searches the model information
table 25 based on the product name and product serial number among
the device-specific information collected from the scanner 30H, and
checks whether matching model information has been registered.
Information such as the manufacturing date may also be utilized as
the duplicate data used in the identification judgment of the
comparison processing.
[0149] When, as a result of the check, matching model information
has been registered, the driver for controlling the scanner 30H is
read from the driver information field 63 with the check matching
record such that an operational state is assumed (S168). That is,
the device driver for controlling newly connected devices is
automatically installed by comparing device-specific information
with the model information.
[0150] On the other hand, as a result of the check, when there is a
check mismatch, the unit 20 continues the processing without any
execution (S170). Further, for each cycle or when the check yields
a mismatch, the unit 20 accesses a predetermined computer that is
determined beforehand, confirms whether model information has been
added and, when such model information has been newly added, the
newly added model information is downloaded and additionally
registered in the model information table 25.
[0151] The processing for issuing an output instruction from the
browser terminal 40 to the unit 20 will be described next.
[0152] FIG. 17 is an example of a processing instruction screen
that is displayed on the browser terminal 40. An available device
list 180 and a processing function list 182 are displayed on the
screen of the browser. Devices for which device-specific
information has been registered in the device-specific information
table 24 are displayed in the available device list 180. Further,
when groups have been registered in the group field 59 of the
device-specific information table 24, only those devices pertaining
to the groups matching the groups desired by the user are selected
and displayed in the form of a list. Further, the processing
function list 182 displays a list of processes that can be
performed by using the devices displayed in the available device
list 180.
[0153] FIG. 18 shows the flow of processing to issue an output
instruction to the unit 20. Here, processing that uses the
image-forming means (printer) of the output module 28 to print and
output images that are captured by the scanner 30H.
[0154] First, the user accesses the unit 20 via the browser
terminal 40. The browser terminal 40 receives the processing
instruction screen information distributed by the Web server module
27 and displays the processing instruction screen shown in FIG. 17
on the display means of the browser terminal 40 (S190).
[0155] The user first selects the desired processing from among the
processing function list 182 of the display screen and then selects
the devices for executing this processing from the available device
list 180 (S132). At such time, the selection of the processing and
device may be executed by using a normal technique such as
designating the processing and device by means of a pointing device
or touch panel.
[0156] For example, if the user selects `print` from the processing
function list 182, the data to be printed and the output
destination for executing the printing are then designated. When
the print data are captured from the scanner 30H, the scanner 30H
is designated from the available device list 180. As a result, the
MFP module 22 automatically interprets the fact that print data are
captured by performing scanning by means of the scanner 30H.
Meanwhile, the image-forming means of the Output module 28 is
selected from the available device list 180 as the output
destination. When a plurality of printers of the same type are
connected, for example, the location of the printer to be used for
printing is designated.
[0157] Further, when the user selects the desired processing
function from the processing function list 182, only the devices
associated with the processing function of the available device
list 180 can be selected and unassociated devices enter a state
that cannot be displayed or selected. For example, when the user
selects `print` from the processing function list 182, output
devices that are not related to the print processing such as the
projector 301 and the RGB output terminals and so forth are removed
from the device list and move into a state in which they cannot be
selected. Only input devices such as the scanner 301 and output
devices such as the printer are presented as devices that can be
selected. Thus, the operability of the user improves as a result of
making it possible to select only the devices associated with the
processing function selected by the user from the device list.
[0158] Thus, when the processing function (work content) and the
device for executing the processing are designated, the designated
processing is executed by the designated device (S194). More
specifically, the PC module 21 of the unit 20 captures print data
from the scanner 30H and, images are formed from the print data by
the image-forming means of the Output module 28 which are then
printed out. If necessary, the MFP module 22 converts data into a
format that is compatible with an input device and output device
(including the Output module 28), whereupon the data are
transmitted from the input device to the output device via the PC
module 21 and processing is executed.
[0159] The browser terminal 40 is, as a general rule, used only for
issuing a processing content instruction. When an instruction
regarding the processing content is issued to the unit 20 via the
browser terminal 40, data are then automatically exchanged between
unit 20 and each device 30 and the processing instructed by the
user is executed. Therefore, the browser terminal 40 need not
comprise a driver for controlling the respective devices 30
connected to the network 10 or a printer driver or the like but
rather is able to execute the desired processing driverlessly.
[0160] Further, although processing to print out images captured by
means of a scanner by using the unit 20 was exemplified in the
second embodiment, various processing that combines optional
devices can be executed. For example, in the case of printing out a
file that is stored in a storage device connected to the network,
after the desired storage device is selected from the available
device list 180, the file to be printed out may be designated.
Further, an instruction to print a file stored in the storage means
of the browser terminal 40 may also be issued.
[0161] Further, in this embodiment, the unit 20 may comprise the
Output module 28. That is, the unit 20 is constituted containing an
output system such as a printer. However, the unit 20 need not
necessarily contain an output system (output module 28). In other
words, the unit 20 may be constituted comprising only the PC module
21 and the output system such as a printer may be positioned as one
of the external devices as per the devices 30 and may be
constituted to manage device-specific information on the printer or
the like in the device-specific information table 24.
[0162] Further, as mentioned earlier, the present invention is not
limited to the above embodiments. Rather, the present invention can
be implemented in a variety of other forms within a scope not
departing from the spirit of the present invention. For this
reason, the above embodiment is only a simple illustration in all
respects and is not to be interpreted in a restrictive way.
[0163] For example, although the present invention was described on
the basis of the specific system constitution shown in FIGS. 3 and
13 in the above embodiment, it is understood that the system
constitution of the present invention is not limited to such a
constitution.
[0164] Moreover, the respective processing steps of the above
processing can be changed arbitrarily with respect to their order
or can be executed in parallel within a range that does not produce
inconsistencies in the processing content.
[0165] In addition, in the above embodiment, a case where the
device-specific information was constituted by the product name,
product serial number, manufacturing date, and version number was
illustrated. However, the present invention is not limited to such
a case. For example, only the product name and product serial
number may be employed. The point is that any kind of information
may be used as long as this information allows the respective
devices 30 on the network 10 to be uniquely identified and this
information is held peculiarly by the respective devices 30.
[0166] Moreover, according to the present invention, when a
plurality of units 20 are connected to the network 10, control is
exercised such that the plurality of units 20 co-operates and
virtually act as one unit. Hence, irrespective of which unit 20 in
the system the browser terminal 40 accesses, a shared UI is
provided.
* * * * *